Print

Old-Fashioned Butter Mints Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.4 from 9 reviews

Old-Fashioned Butter Mints are delicate, melt-in-your-mouth candies made from a smooth blend of butter, powdered sugar, and peppermint extract. These classic homemade mints are easy to prepare, require no baking, and make a perfect treat for holidays, special occasions, or just to satisfy a sweet craving with a refreshing peppermint flavor.

  • Author: Chef
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 100 servings
  • Category: Candy
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Butter Mint Candy Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 tablespoon heavy cream or milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
  • 1 pinch salt
  • Gel food coloring (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Butter: Beat the softened butter in a large mixing bowl until it becomes smooth and creamy, ensuring a soft base for the mints.
  2. Add Flavor and Cream: Mix in the peppermint extract, salt, and heavy cream or milk thoroughly until combined, infusing the buttery base with a refreshing mint flavor and creaminess.
  3. Incorporate Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar to the mixture, stirring as you go, until a soft dough forms that can be kneaded without being too sticky.
  4. Add Coloring (Optional): If desired, divide the dough into portions and knead in gel food coloring to create mints in different colors, adding visual appeal.
  5. Form Ropes: On a surface dusted with powdered sugar, roll the dough into thin ropes about 1/2 inch thick, preparing them for cutting into individual mints.
  6. Cut Mints: Use a dough scraper or knife to cut the ropes into small, bite-sized pieces, shaping the classic butter mint candies.
  7. Dry the Mints: Place the cut pieces on parchment paper and let them dry at room temperature for 8 hours or overnight, allowing them to firm up and develop the perfect texture.

Notes

  • Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness and get the true butter flavor.
  • Heavy cream gives a richer texture; milk can be used as a substitute but may alter texture slightly.
  • Gel food coloring provides vibrant colors without adding extra moisture.
  • Ensure powdered sugar is sifted to avoid lumps in the dough.
  • Drying time is crucial for the mints to firm up properly; do not skip or shorten.
  • Store mints in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness.
  • This recipe makes approximately 100 small butter mints, perfect for gifting or large gatherings.